For Patients

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions About Your Surgery

Explore the questions below to prepare yourself for the periods leading up to, during, and following your surgical experience.

What tests are required prior to my procedure?

Your surgeon or anesthesia specialist will identify any necessary pre-operative testing and relay this information to you ahead of your scheduled surgery date.

Will I be contacted prior to my procedure by the facility?

Expect to receive up to three separate communications. Several days before your surgery, a healthcare team member will reach out to conduct a standard health evaluation, provide day-of-surgery guidelines, and address your concerns. Additionally, our business office may contact you regarding financial obligations such as co-payments and deductibles. Your anesthesiologist may also call you separately.

What should I bring?

Photo identification along with your insurance card(s) for verification and copying during check-in
Any necessary medications for use during your facility visit (such as inhalers or insulin)
A comprehensive list of your current medications
Payment for any out-of-pocket expenses (co-payments or deductibles)
Leave valuable items like rings, watches, and jewelry at home

Should I arrange a ride to the facility?

Absolutely. Driving yourself home after surgery is prohibited. Organize transportation with a responsible adult who can drive you home and remain with you upon arrival.

What may I eat and drink before procedure?

Your surgeon or pre-operative nursing staff will communicate dietary restrictions before your surgery. Safety protocols mandate no food or beverages for 8 or more hours preceding your procedure. Adherence to these guidelines is critical—failure to comply may result in postponement or cancellation.

Should I take my routine medications on the day of procedure?

Your physician or a team member will provide medication-specific instructions. As mentioned previously, prepare a complete medication list (including names and dosages) and bring any required medications for your facility stay (such as inhalers or insulin).

What can I do to help ensure that I have the proper procedure on the correct site?

Patient safety remains our top priority. Your entire care team adheres to strict protocols for site verification and procedure confirmation. National Patient Safety Goals require your active participation as well. Expect multiple requests to verify both your procedure type and surgical location. Engage actively in all conversations with your surgeon, anesthesia provider, and staff concerning procedure identification and site confirmation. Typically, your surgeon will mark the surgical site beforehand.

What can I do to help prevent a site infection?

Shower both the evening before and the morning of your surgery. Follow these guidelines: Begin by washing your hair with regular shampoo Cleanse your entire body using liquid antibacterial soap with a fresh washcloth for each shower Thoroughly rinse away all soap residue Pat yourself dry using a clean towel Avoid applying lotions, creams, or powders Refrain from shaving or trimming the surgical area unless specifically instructed by your physician On your procedure day, ensure you, your family, and caregivers maintain frequent handwashing both at the facility and home post-surgery. Don’t hesitate to ask healthcare team members if they’ve washed their hands Following your procedure, maintain frequent handwashing for yourself, family, and caregivers. Carefully follow all care team instructions regarding surgical site maintenance, cleaning protocols, and post-operative medication and bandage management

What if I think I might be pregnant?

Immediately inform your physician, anesthesiologist, and nurse before your surgery date if pregnancy is a possibility. Surgical procedures, anesthesia, and medications can pose risks to fetal development.

Day of Procedure

What will happen when I first arrive at the facility?

Upon arrival, a staff member will complete your check-in. Since we’ve gathered most information beforehand, the admission process typically moves quickly. This final verification ensures all critical details are accurate for optimal service delivery.

What should I wear?

Choose comfortable clothing that’s simple to remove and store. Avoid wearing jewelry, piercings, nail polish, and cosmetics. Either leave contact lenses at home or bring your lens case.

What should I do with my clothes and additional belongings?

A nurse will guide you to the pre-operative area where you’ll change. Your personal items will remain securely stored until discharge. We strongly recommend leaving valuables and extra accessories at home.

What happens after I check-in?

A nurse will perform a pre-operative evaluation including vital sign measurement and IV placement if your procedure requires it. Your anesthesia provider will meet with you in the pre-operative area to review information and discuss your anesthesia plan. Our team will update your family and friends on your status. We recognize the concern loved ones experience during your procedure and will make every effort to keep them informed about your progress and when they can rejoin you afterward.

Will I see my physician prior to procedure?

Yes. Most procedures require you and your surgeon to jointly confirm both the specific procedure type and the surgical site location.

How long can my family stay with me prior to my procedure?

Several factors influence this timing. However, we recognize that familiar faces help reduce pre-procedure anxiety, so please inform your nurse if you’d like a friend or family member present—we’ll accommodate whenever possible.

When should I arrive?

Your pre-operative phone call will include specific arrival time instructions. Punctual arrival at the designated time is essential.

Can I smoke?

No. We strongly discourage smoking on your procedure day. Tobacco use can interfere with anesthesia and commonly triggers nausea during recovery.

Anesthesia

Are there different kinds of sedation or anesthesia?

Yes. Five sedation and anesthesia categories exist: Conscious Sedation (our most common approach—you’re sedated and comfortable but not completely unconscious), General, Regional, Monitored Anesthesia Care, and Local Anesthesia. Regardless of which type you receive, specialized anesthetic agents and techniques ensure safe and rapid recovery. When alternative options exist for your surgery, your physician or anesthesia provider will discuss them with you beforehand.

May I request the type of anesthesia I will receive?

Depending on your surgery type, anesthetic alternatives may be available. Your physician or anesthesia provider will discuss options after reviewing your medical background.

Will I receive any sedatives before procedure?

You, your surgeon, and your anesthesia provider will collaboratively create an anesthetic care strategy. This plan may incorporate preoperative sedation and additional medications as needed.

What are the risks of anesthesia?

Every surgical procedure and anesthetic carries inherent risks. These risks vary based on numerous factors, including surgery type and patient medical status. Your anesthesiologist will conduct a preoperative assessment and implement all precautions to minimize risk. Common minor symptoms include nausea, vomiting, sore throat, dizziness, fatigue, headache, muscle discomfort, and pain—most of which respond well to treatment. Feel free to discuss any concerns with your anesthesia provider.

Will I be billed separately by the anesthesiologist?

Yes. If anesthesia services were provided, you’ll receive a separate invoice from your anesthesia provider.

Why must I refrain from eating and/or drinking prior to procedure?

Fasting before surgery prevents the risk of aspirating gastric contents (a vomiting-related complication) during your procedure. This complication can be extremely serious. You’ll receive specific instructions based on national safety standards before your procedure. Strict adherence to these guidelines is crucial—non-compliance may result in surgery delay or cancellation.

After Procedure

What will happen if I am not able to go home?

Hospital admission from our surgery center occurs when medically necessary. Under certain circumstances, your physician or anesthesiologist may decide you require transfer to a hospital for extended post-operative monitoring.

What if I am not feeling well once I get home?

If you experience severe pain or display warning symptoms outlined in your discharge instructions, immediately contact your physician, proceed to the nearest emergency room, or dial 911.

What can I eat when I get home?

Your surgeon may provide specific post-operative dietary recommendations. We typically suggest light eating after surgery and strongly encourage ample fluid intake. Avoid consuming alcoholic beverages.

Can my family be with me after procedure?

Yes. Following surgery, you’ll be moved to a recovery area. A nurse will track your vital signs and ensure your comfort as anesthesia effects diminish. Once you’re awake and alert, your family may be invited to join you in the recovery area if appropriate.

May I drive home?

No. Patients cannot drive following a procedure and must arrange alternative transportation. Using public transportation from our facility after a procedure is not permitted—ensure a responsible adult accompanies you for 24 hours post-procedure.

Should I continue my usual medications after procedure?

Most patients resume their regular medications following surgery. Patients with diabetes and those taking blood thinners may need medication adjustments. These instructions will be clarified before you leave the facility. Contact your surgeon or primary care physician with any questions.

How long will I stay after my procedure?

Recovery duration varies among patients. Following your procedure, a nurse will monitor your vital signs and confirm you’re alert and stable. Discharge occurs as soon as your healthcare team determines it’s safe for you to leave the facility.

At our clinic, our mission is to help you live a pain-free and active life. We provide personalized, compassionate care tailored to each patient’s unique needs.